"Do you think school uniforms are a good or bad idea?" by Siena T.

School uniforms are often used as a way to make everyone feel equal and look “put together” however this tends to fail and have negative effects. Forcing students to wear the same clothes can take away from their freedom, creativity, aesthetic, comfortability and identity. Students should be able to appropriately express themselves and be comfortable at school. Clothing is one of the easiest ways for students to show who they are. Uniforms can make school feet strict and less welcoming. Many students can feel more confident when they can choose their own outfits. Because of this, schools should not require uniforms.

There are several reasons why school uniforms are a bad idea. First off, uniforms stop students from showing their individuality and their personality. Everybody wearing the same clothes at school makes it really hard for students to show their style and personality. Clothing is one way to express who they are, which they can't do if they have to wear the same clothes. Students feel less confident because they cannot show their originality. Schools should renovate uniform policies to allow students the choice to pick what they want to wear while still keeping in mind standard rules and boundaries. Providing choice allows students to develop a sense of reverence for their personal style and identity.

Uniforms are not free and can actually be unaffordable for a lot of students. Some families may struggle financially and aren't able to have access to the uniforms which creates an extra layer of stress. Uniforms also may be extremely uncomfortable for students which can really distract a student and cause them to feel uncomfortable and just overall be in a bad mood. Wearing clothes that don't fit well and are uncomfortable makes learning harder. Allowing students to choose their clothes gives them comfort and lets them be able to focus better on their classes. Schools should consider how erasing dress codes could financially and educationally positively affect the majority of students. When students are comfortable and feel free from unnecessary financial pressure they are more likely to stay focused and engaged.

Uniforms also don't do anything to affect behavior, grades or attendance. Schools assume and believe that uniforms will stop bullying and make everyone only focus on school which is completely incorrect. Students can behave better and learn better without uniforms . Uniforms do not solve any problems. Instead of focusing on clothes, schools should focus on education, responsibility and respect. Letting students choose their clothing teaches them independence while also maintaining order. Students should be trusted to make simple decisions like what they wear. Schools can set basic rules without forcing everyone to dress the exact same way.

School uniforms are more harmful than helpful. They take away freedom, creativity and can bring up financial and comfortability problems. Students should be able to wear their own clothes  while still following simple rules. This gives students comfort, confidence and a place to show their personality. Choosing their own outfit helps students feel more respected and free in a sense.  Schools should focus on learning and respect not forcing uniforms. Students feel happier and enjoy school better when they have their choice in clothes.